3D Systems announced that the company’s first 3D printer for the home, Cube, has received the Good Design Award 2013 in the category of communication devices/equipment for individuals or home, by the Japan Institute of Design Promotion.

The Good Design Award, established in Japan in 1957, is a comprehensive programme for the evaluation and encouragement of design. Over 1,000 entries were awarded from 3,400 applications submitted for the 2013 awards. The Cube was awarded the Good Design BEST 100, which are the greatest 100 designs selected from all the Good Design Award recipients with high evaluation by the jury members.

The Cube is the first 3D printer designed and certified safe for home use and use by children and it is packed with consumer friendly features such as contemporary design and tablet-like touch screen ease of use.

“This 3D printer is an innovative product which has largely changed the prototyping environment. While there has been 3D printer demand for quite some time, it was expensive, so it did not become widespread for the market. Finally, this product (Cube) is compact and at a reasonable price. It is easy, simple to use, and high quality for everyone. The cartridge system with 16 colors available is a good design. We also recognized that this product allows for the transfer of 3D data by wi-fi: this introduces a new lifestyle to the market,” said the Good Design Judging Committee.

“We are deeply honored to have been selected for this prestigious and reputable award by the Japan Institute for Design Promotion,” said Cathy Lewis, Chief Marketing Officer, 3D Systems. “It is especially timely as our presence in Japan grows and expands into consumer retail environments, and as more Japanese explore 3D printing both at home and professionally.”

The Cube will be on display at the Good Design Exhibition 2013 in Tokyo Midtown, Tokyo, Japan, from October 30 through November 4, 2013.